Best Places for Fall Foliage in the US

Leaf peeping season is THE time to venture outdoors and experience the beauty of American nature. While the changing of leaves is a global seasonal event, there are so many spectacular places that come alive even more during the autumn months right in the US. I adore fall, the sunny breezy days, chill evenings, and  come along through an autumnal paradise, as I list some of what I consider to be the best places for fall foliage.   

 

Eastern United States 

While I adore the western US, the East Coast in my opinion reigns supreme when planning a fall-themed vacation. The iconic region is the Northeast and in particular, New England states are the ones that continue to take the crown for stunning fall views and vistas. 

Vermont 

One of my favorite fall foliage states, Vermont is the iconic destination for a fall holiday getaway. I’m sure Vermont is what you think of when dreaming about the leaves falling, rolling farm hills, and a crisp breeze in the air in October. You, me and several thousands of others. This state can get busy during the fall months, the climate is temperate, the scenery is stunning and 

As for places to stay, Stowe is a can’t beat city for outdoor autumn activities. It’s close distance to great hiking and biking trails as well as delicious dining options. Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest mountain isn’t far, so you can take in the seasonal sights from high above. Woodstock is another must on my fall itinerary, the town is the perfect size to walk around and immerse yourself in small-town New England living. 

Best time to get to know the Green Mountains: mid October

Maine

I’ve been to Maine in spring, summer and fall and while I’d argue that the rocky coastline and pine-filled forests are a treat any time of year, it seems that autumn is an especially magical time to visit. 

Acadia National Park is one of my favorite east coast forest destinations. The craggy seaside and the dense forest landscape make for an ideal autumn backdrop. 

On your way up to Acadia (via Portland), be sure to stop in Freeport and take in all the coastal loveliness as you make your way north. While Bar Harbor is not only in proximity to the park, it is great for finding good food and drink. I’d also suggest branching out on the peninsulas and looking for accommodations outside Mount Desert Island. The Schoodic or Blue Hill Peninsula are both fantastic options to have the ideal Maine wilderness experience. 

Best time to make a trip up North: late September/early October

Pennsylvania 

Truth be told, up until recently I hadn’t done much hiking and camping in my own home state. I spent most of my 20s busy working and living in Philadelphia, or my 30s returning to the Keystone state visiting family in Pittsburgh. The idea of exploring my own backyard often took a back seat to international travels. It took slowing down to revisit some beautiful parts of the Commonwealth. 

OhioPyle can be the perfect day trip from Pittsburgh and with over 80 miles of trails there is a trek for any level hiker. If you’re making a trip, be sure to make reservations ahead to tour Falling Water to see Frank Lloyd Wright’s stunning architecture among the forest. 

Allegheny National Forest is one of my favorite places in Pittsburgh, especially when it comes to viewing fall leaves. Be sure to stay near Benezette to also get a glimpse of the Pennsylvania Elk population. The Pine Creek Gorge, otherwise known as the “Grand Canyon of Pa” is a gorgeous tree-filled overlook along the rail trail of Central Pennsylvania. For our Philly people, the Poconos in the eastern part of the state is close proximity for leaf peeping. Jim Thorpe is a great place to spend a weekend in the Poconos Mountains.  

You can check the leaf change in real-time through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources with their Fall Foliage Report. 

Best time to go back and visit the family: late September/early October 

Midwestern United States

Ohio

Not far from Cleveland, Cuyahoga National Park sits along the Cuyahoga River and while it may not have the vast expansiveness of other parks in the country, it’s worth a visit. Aside from the hiking, you can get the fall colors in full view by taking the park’s scenic train ride. Be sure to hike the ledges to see unique rock formations, while other loops offer waterfalls and covered bridges among the trees.  

While Cuyahoga is the main National Park in the region, I’d argue that Hocking Hills is equally, or arguably an even more stunning state park. Caves and falls are the main attraction here and even if this is a park for all seasons, my favorite time to be here is fall and winter. With 7 major hiking areas in the park, you have a chance to witness brilliant autumn colors all around.   

Best time to enjoy the Buckeye State: late October/ early November 

Michigan 

Sleeping Bear Dunes rests along the National Lakeshore on the lower peninsula and is the ultimate way to experience Michigan’s coastline. Dubbed the “most beautiful place in America” dunes and lakeside drives provide for an epic contrast to the changing colors. Lake Michigan is the ideal place for a scenic drive. Don’t sleep however on the Upper Peninsula, often awarded with being one of the top fall foliage destinations in the US. 

Mackinac Island tourist season is coming to a close in the fall, so it’s a fabulous time to sneak up and embrace the unique island. Over 80% is preserved land as a state park, a visit here provides a quiet visit away from the crowds. Biking and kayaking are a few special ways to see the vivid autumn leaves changing. 

Best time to get to the Mitt: October 

Wisconsin 

I made the mistake of not visiting Wisconsin until recently, and it’s a state I’m sad to not have explored it sooner. Door County is the place for leaf chasing, with drives to Ephraim or Fish Creek offering visitors quite the show. Keep an eye on each of the county’s leaf activity with the state’s color report.  

If you’re looking to knock a few Midwest destinations off the list in one trip, consider an iconic drive. The Great River road passes through Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa and Missouri and is chock-full of leaf-changing pit stops and small towns along the way. This iconic scenic byway is thousands of miles of opportunities for adventure. 

Best time to dive into the dairyland : late September/mid-October

Western United States 

California 

Take a drive on the PCH with a few leaf-looking destinations along the way. After Labor Day weekend the crowds at Yosemite start to thin out and the foliage changes making for a picturesque time to visit. If the complexity of the famed Half Dome hike doesn’t appeal to you, head to wine country where the vineyards shine during this time of year. Places like Napa and Healdsburg will be adorned in oranges and ambers. 

Best time to soak in the sunshine state: October

Oregon

The Willamette Valley is a harvest season gem. The rolling hills and vineyards are a perfect fall backdrop and are only a short drive from Portland. It’s no secret that this is one of my favorite parts of what I’d claim to be one of the prettiest states, and this time of year is no different. Not to be outdone, the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood forest is another region where you’ll be marveling at the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The state is unique because you can find maple, oak, ash and aspen in the state so you’ll have a variety of seasonal scenes. 

Best time for a Pacific Northwest exploration: mid-October 

Colorado

Outdoor lovers’ dream destination, Colorado really shines this time of year. Aspen, the namesake for the blazing flaxen leafed trees is a must for a fall getaway. With the snowy-topped mountains in the background and the bright autumn colors on display, it is a true treat. While it’s popular for snowy ski retreats, a midweek fall visit lends itself to having a relaxing trip without as many crowds. 

If you are looking for somewhere far away from the herds of people at Rocky Mountain National Park, I’d suggest checking out Black Canyon of the Gunnison for views that rival the Grand Canyon but without the car pile-ups. Bright autumn colors provide a stunning contrast to the dark gneiss rock along the canyon walls.  

Best time to visit for prime leaf time: mid-September/mid-October

New Mexico 

You may not equate fall leaves with the American Southwest, but rest assured there is some stunning deciduous trees in addition to the cacti-filled arid landscapes that may first come to mind. Places like the Carson National Forest in the northern part of the state and Taos are where leaf lovers can coalesce. The Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway or routes surrounding Santa Fe and Albuquerque are all great options for an autumn getaway.     

Best time for those vibrant yellows: late September/early October

Southern United States 

West Virginia 

New River Gorge may have been around as a conservation area since the 70s, but it is a newbie in the National Parks list. Officially recognized as the 63rd National Park in 2020, New River Gorge is a gem within the mountain state. 

While rhododendrons steal the show on the trails in the spring and early summer months, fall makes way for some breathtaking views of vibrant colors cascading down the hills of the preserve and into the rushing New River. For the best vista overlooks be sure to hike Endless Wall and Longpoint trails. These wide-open vantage points will offer unobstructed views of the forest below as well as a spectacular scene with the famed bridge in the background. 

Just beyond the visitors center is another opportunity to see the bridge up close, offering a chance to marvel at the longest steel span in the Western Hemisphere, as well as being the third highest bridge in the US. WV tourism board has a live leaf link that will keep you abreast of the changing leaves in real-time. 

Best time for Gorge gazing: late September/late October

Arkansas

Hot Springs National Park may be lower on the list of visited parks in the country, but it can be a small but mighty region. Take a dip in the warm thermal pools in town when the weather turns crisp and cool. Carve out some time to get a great bird’s eye view at over 200 feet at the Mountain Tower. 

After a full day of exploring, don’t forget to stop for a pint at Superior Bathhouse which is the only small batch brewery found inside a National Park. 

Best time to move through the mountains: late October/early November

Virginia

Skyline Drive is a road trip enthusiast’s dream. Running through Shenandoah National Park, this scenic drive does not disappoint as the 105-mile route weaves its way right through the park. While you could tackle Skyline in about 3 or 4 hours in one day, I highly recommend taking the park in small sections over a few days that way you won’t miss out on any of the many hiking trails and overlooks. 

The Virginia Department of Forestry has a useful fall foliage report, an 800 number you can call for weekly updates. 

Best time to take a drive through the Blue Ridge: October 

Tennesse  

The most visited park by runaway numbers (14 million compared to runner up, Zion with a mere 5 million visitors) While it isn’t a secret that this is not one of my favorite parks, I did enjoy the time I spent here in the fall and it was one of the only places I’ve seen bears out in the wild. While the adjacent town of Gatlinburg is a way too crowded for my taste, there are a few small towns that offer less touristed places to stay and I found several trails within the park system that were not as trodden as the busy Cades Cove. Crowds or not, one thing you can’t deny is that the Smokies are an impressive range that shines in the fall months. 

Take a little of the guesswork out by staying up to date with a foliage predictor map. 

Best time to go distillery hopping in the hills: October 

Planning a Visit to the Best Places for Fall Foliage 

The catch is planning the perfect window of opportunity to see the leaves change. Peak leaf peeping can be tricky, since each year it may fluctuate depending on that year’s weather and climate. Follow the destinations on social media so you can keep track of the ideal time to visit.

Whether or not you miss the pinnacle of fall viewing, you’ll still have gorgeous sights regardless.